POWERCHINA and Al-Farabi University Collaborate for Kazakhstan's Energy Innovation

The Power Construction Corporation of China (POWERCHINA) and Al-Farabi Kazakh National University have joined forces to enhance technological innovation in Kazakhstan. POWERCHINA, with a history of 26 projects in Kazakhstan, has recently signed an agreement with the university to boost industry-academia-research cooperation. One of their key projects involves the transformation of the Almaty Coal-fired Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Plant 2, aiming to upgrade the local energy infrastructure.

Kazakhstan, in its pursuit of carbon neutrality by 2060, is prioritizing the development of new energy sources. As part of this effort, the plan to convert the outdated Almaty CHP Plant 2 into a combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plant has been set in motion. This upgraded plant is expected to reduce harmful emissions significantly while meeting the energy needs of Almaty.

Valeria, an employee at POWERCHINA's local branch, shared her journey of joining the company in 2015 and gaining nearly nine years of valuable work experience. With each project in Kazakhstan, POWERCHINA aims to transfer advanced construction techniques and knowledge to local employees. The company also invests in training Kazakh employees in China to nurture them into skilled technical professionals.

The Almaty CHP Plant 2, originally constructed in 1974 under Russian design standards, has evolved over the years to incorporate European standards into its operations. By understanding and integrating both sets of standards, POWERCHINA successfully secured the bid for the upgrade project. The project officially commenced on November 19, 2021, with the presence of Kazakhstan's President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who participated in a ceremony marking the occasion by burying a 'time capsule' containing a letter to be unveiled upon the project's completion in 2026.

The collaboration between POWERCHINA and Al-Farabi Kazakh National University signifies a significant step towards modernizing Kazakhstan's energy infrastructure. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the upgrade of the Almaty CHP Plant 2 not only aligns with Kazakhstan's goal of carbon neutrality but also showcases the commitment to enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions. This partnership not only benefits the local community but also highlights the importance of international cooperation in driving technological advancements for a greener future.